Packaging systems and kits

ABSTRACT

Packaging systems can include a substantially rigid member and a resilient member, wherein the resilient member is spaced from a portion of the substantially rigid member. In some embodiments, the substantially rigid member can be configured to be foldable into a complete container with a lid having pivotal flaps. The pivotable flaps can be configured to engage a resilient film so as to generate tension in the film when enclosed about an article of commerce, for shock-absorbent packaging purposes. Packaging systems can also include internal pivotable flaps with interference members disposed in a hinge area to cause the internal pivotable flaps to function as leaf springs.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Inventions

Embodiments described herein are directed to packaging systems and kits.

2. Description of the Related Art

Protective packaging devices are often used to protect goods from shocksand impacts during shipping or transportation. For example, whentransporting articles that are relatively fragile, it is often desirableto cushion the article inside a box to protect the article from aphysical impact with the inner walls of the box that might be caused byshocks imparted to the box during loading, transit, and unloading.

In most cases, some additional structure is used to keep the articlefrom moving uncontrollably within the box. Such additional structuresinclude paper or plastic packing material, structured plastic foams,foam-filled cushions, and the like. Ideally, the article to be packagedis spaced from at least some of the walls of the box, thus protectingthe article from other foreign objects which may impact or compromisethe outer walls of the box.

SUMMARY

A resilient member, such as a pliable film, can be used to secure anarticle within a container. For example, the pliable film can beconfigured to stretch around or over an article to minimize thearticle's movement within the container. The pliable film can be coupledto the container using an adhesive, staples, or the like. The use ofthese additional materials, however, can be expensive, time-consuming,and/or procedurally complicated.

As described herein, a substantially rigid member, such as a piece ofcorrugated cardboard, can be folded into a container. The substantiallyrigid member can be cut from a rectangular piece of starting material,such as a rectangular piece of corrugated cardboard, which has a lengthand a width at least equal to the length and the width of thesubstantially rigid member when it is in an unfolded configuration.Accordingly, an aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosedherein includes the realization that a substantially rigid member can bedesigned with an overall reduced length and/or width, without reducingthe inner volume of the container. For example, some embodiments aredirected to a substantially rigid member that does not include a tongueportion, described further herein. A reduced amount of starting materialcan result in a reduced burden on environmental resources, reducedstorage space, and increased cost savings.

As described herein, a resilient member, such as a pliable film, can beused to apply a downward force to an article to secure it within acontainer. An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed hereinincludes the realization that the article can be additionally supported(e.g., may be less prone to movement within the container) when one ormore compliant members are placed beneath the article, such that thearticle is sandwiched between the pliable film and the compliant member.The compliant member can resist and respond to the downward force. Thiscompliant member can include, for example, a cardboard flap or a secondpliable film. Another aspect of at least one of the embodimentsdisclosed herein includes the realization that the article can befurther protected when it is spaced from the outer walls of thecontainer. Accordingly, the flap or the second pliable film can beconfigured to space the article from the bottom wall, in addition toproviding increased support.

Thus, in accordance with another embodiment, a packaging kit forpackaging an article can include a substantially rigid member, whereinthe substantially rigid member includes a container portion configuredto form a portion of a container capable of containing an article; and alid portion that includes at least a top panel and two opposingpivotable side portions, the top panel being pivotable relative to thecontainer portion; the lid portion further configured to be movablebetween an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein whenin the closed configuration, at least a portion of each of the twoopposing pivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surfaceof the top panel at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to theinterior surface. The packaging kit can further include a pliable filmconfigured to couple with the opposing pivotable side portions, whereinwhen the pliable film is coupled with the opposing pivotable sideportions and the lid portion is in the closed configuration, each of theopposing pivotable side portions space the pliable film from the toppanel.

In accordance with another embodiment, a packaging kit for packaging anarticle can include a substantially rigid member, wherein thesubstantially rigid member includes a container portion configured toform a portion of a container capable of containing an article; and anarticle portion that includes at least a base and first and secondpivotable side portions, the base being pivotable relative to thecontainer portion; the article portion further configured to be movablebetween an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein whenin the closed configuration, at least a portion of each of the first andsecond pivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surface ofthe base of the article portion. The packaging kit can further include aresilient member configured to couple with the first and secondpivotable side portions, wherein when the resilient member is coupledwith the first and second pivotable side portions and the articleportion is in the closed configuration, each of the first and secondpivotable side portions space the resilient member from the base of thearticle portion.

In accordance with another embodiment, a packaging kit for packaging anarticle can include a substantially rigid member, wherein thesubstantially rigid member includes a container portion configured toform a portion of a container capable of containing an article; thecontainer portion comprising at least a base and a support panelconfigured to resist a force applied by the article; and an articleportion that can include at least a base and first and second pivotableside portions, the base being pivotable relative to the containerportion; the article portion further configured to be movable between anopen configuration and a closed configuration, wherein when in theclosed configuration, at least a portion of each of the first and secondpivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surface of thebase of the article portion. The packaging kit can further include aresilient member configured to couple with the first and secondpivotable side portions, wherein when the resilient member is coupledwith the first and second pivotable side portions and the articleportion is in the closed configuration, each of the first and secondpivotable side portions space the resilient member from the base of thearticle portion.

In accordance with another embodiment, a substantially rigid memberconfigured to form a container capable of containing an article caninclude a container portion, the container portion comprising at least abase and a support panel pivotable relative to the base, wherein thesupport panel is configured to resist a force applied by the article.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features of the packaging systems and kits are describedherein with reference to the drawings of several embodiments of thepresent packaging systems and kits. These are intended to illustrate butnot to limit the inventions. The drawings contain the following figures:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a substantially rigid member in an unfolded andunassembled state, the substantially rigid member including a containerportion and an article portion;

FIG. 1A is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of an articleportion in an unfolded and unassembled state that includes two securingflaps;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the substantially rigid member of FIG. 1in a first partially folded state;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the substantially rigid member of FIG. 1in a second partially folded state;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a resilient member having pockets;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the assembled packaging system in an openconfiguration and with the resilient member coupled to the articleportion of the substantially rigid member;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the packaging system illustrated in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6A is a front view of an assembled packaging system including thearticle portion of FIG. 1A in an open configuration;

FIG. 6B is a plan view of a retention member that can be used with thearticle portion of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 6C is a front view of an assembled packaging system including thearticle portion of FIG. 1A and the retention member of FIG. 6B in anopen configuration;

FIG. 6D is a front view of the assembled packaging system of FIG. 6C,further including a resilient member coupled with and secured to thearticle portion;

FIG. 6E is a side view of the assembled packaging system of FIG. 6D;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the packaging system of FIG. 5 with the articleportion of the substantially rigid member in a closed configuration;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the packaging system illustrated inFIG. 5;

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the packagingsystem of FIG. 8, wherein the packaging system includes the containerportion illustrated in FIG. 13;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the packaging system illustrated in FIG.5 with the article portion in the closed configuration;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the container portion of the packaging systemillustrated in FIG. 1 and illustrates the pivotable flap disposed withinthe container portion of the substantially rigid member;

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment to the container portiondepicted in FIG. 10 and illustrates a container portion with additionalpivotable flaps;

FIG. 12 is a top view of the container portion of FIG. 11 andillustrates the pivotable flaps being folded along the dotted fold linesillustrated in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the container portion illustratedin FIG. 12 and illustrates the pivotable flaps being pivoted towards thebase.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a frame in an unfolded and unassembled state;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of a second resilient member having pockets;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a removable retention member in anassembled configuration;

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of an assembled packaging kit thatincludes a substantially rigid member coupled to a first resilientmember and a removable retention member coupled to a second resilientmember;

FIG. 18 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a substantiallyrigid member that includes a tongue portion, a top panel, and a wallpanel;

FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of the substantially rigid member ofFIG. 18 in a closed configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein are packaging systems, kits, and methods for assemblingand using the same. The packaging kits can include any of thesubstantially rigid members and resilient members disclosed below, suchas the substantially rigid member 10 and the resilient member 128.

As described herein, terms of orientation, such as upper, lower, top,bottom, left, right, front, back, side, longitudinal, horizontal,vertical, lateral, mid-point and end are used here to simplify thedescription in the context of the illustrated embodiments. Because otherorientations are possible, however, the packaging systems describedherein should not be limited to the illustrated orientations. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that other orientations of thecomponents of the systems described herein are possible.

With reference to FIG. 1, a substantially rigid member 10 is illustratedtherein in an unfolded state and is constructed in accordance with anembodiment. The substantially rigid member 10 includes a containerportion 12 and an article portion 14. The container portion 12 isconfigured to form a container capable of containing an article. Thecontainer can have a cavity or recess. In some embodiments, the articleportion can be a lid portion of the container. In other embodiments, thearticle portion can be a tongue portion, such as the tongue portion 368of substantially rigid member 10″, described herein.

The substantially rigid member 10 can be constructed from variousmaterials, including but without limitation, paper, cardboard,corrugated cardboard, plastic, and other appropriate materials. Thechosen material for constructing the substantially rigid member 10 canbe any substantially rigid but foldable material. It will be appreciatedthat, although denominated as rigid or substantially rigid, the chosenmaterial would preferably have an amount of flexibility in the cases ofextreme physical impact. In some embodiments, the substantially rigidmember 10 includes a single piece of corrugated cardboard. In someembodiments, the material used to form the substantially rigid member isa single wall corrugated C-flute cardboard. Advantageously, a singlepiece of corrugated cardboard (or a single piece of other substantiallyrigid material) can be shipped and stored in a compact and/or efficientmanner as compared to other materials that may have to be shipped orstored in a non-planar configuration. Furthermore, a single piece ofstarting material can be assembled into a container more easily thanmultiple, separate pieces of a substantially rigid material.

The substantially rigid member 10 can have a planar, unassembledconfiguration, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The substantially rigid member10 can also be folded into an assembled configuration, described furtherherein. When the substantially rigid member 10 is in the assembledconfiguration, a container portion 12 of the substantially rigid member10 can be assembled into a container capable of containing an article.In the illustrated embodiment, when assembled into a container, thesubstantially rigid member 10 has an outer appearance of a box commonlyused for shipping or retail packaging for goods.

The container can have a base 16 surrounded by four walls extendinggenerally perpendicularly from the base 16. An article portion 14 havingfirst and second pivotable side portions 94, 96 can be assembled suchthat at least a portion of the first and second pivotable side portions94, 96 (e.g., a first panel, such as the inner panel 98) are foldedtowards an inner surface 108 of the base 86.

Once in the assembled configuration, the substantially rigid member 10can form a container capable of moving between an open configuration anda closed configuration. Specifically, at least the article portion canbe movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Inthe open configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 5-6, the container portion12 can be open. In the closed configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 7-9,at least a portion of each of the first and second pivotable sideportions 94, 96 of the article portion 14 (e.g., the inner panels 98,150) can be pivoted towards an interior surface 108 of the base 86 ofthe article portion 14.

For example, the inner panels 98, 150 can be pivoted at an angle ofabout 90 degrees relative to the interior surface 108. In the closedconfiguration, at least a part of the article portion 14 can be nestedin the container portion 12, forming a cavity 126 for holding an article148 that is enclosed on all sides.

As described herein, the substantially rigid member 10 can include acontainer portion 12. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the container portion 12can include a plurality of foldable portions, such as a base 16. Thedesignation as a “base” does not impart any particular significance tothat portion of the container portion 12. Rather, the base 16, in thisembodiment, forms a bottom or a top of the packaging system describedherein. For example, in some embodiments the base 16 can be a bottompanel of the container portion 12.

The base 16 can have a periphery that is defined by fold lines 26, 54,66, and 74. The periphery can delineate the size and shape of the base16. The size (e.g., dimensions) of the base 16 can be chosen by one ofordinary skill in the art to provide the desired amount of surface areaof the bottom or top of the packaging system formed by the substantiallyrigid member 10. In some embodiments, the base 16 can have four edges,and can be, e.g., square-shaped. In one embodiment where thesubstantially rigid member 10 is intended to package a modem or a harddrive, the base 16 can be a square with a length and width of about teninches each. However, those skilled in the art can appreciate that thebase 16 can have other dimensions (e.g., square or rectangular) for usein packaging modems, hard drives, or any other article that is to bepackaged in the packaging systems described herein.

The container portion 12 can include opposing lateral wall portions 18,20 that extend from the periphery of the base 16, as illustrated inFIG. 1. When the base 16 has four edges bounded by four fold lines(e.g., when the base 16 has a quadrilateral shape), the opposing lateralwall portions 18, 20 can pivotably extend from two opposite edges (e.g.,left and right edges of the base 16). The container portion 12 can alsoinclude opposing end wall portions 22, 24 that extend from the peripheryof the base 16. When the base 16 has four edges, the opposing end wallportions 22, 24 can pivotably extend from the other two opposite edges(e.g., front and back edges). In some embodiments, the opposing wallportions 18, 20, 22, 24 of the container portion 12 can be referred toas the left, right, front, and back walls of the container portion 12,respectively.

For brevity, the construction of the lateral wall portion 18 will bedescribed. However, it is to be understood that the lateral wall portion20 also can include the same features. The lateral wall portion 18 canbe pivotably connected to the base 16 at a fold line 26 of the base 16.As illustrated in FIG. 1, the fold line 26 can define one edge of thebase 16. The lateral wall portion 18 can include one or more panels. Forexample, the lateral wall portion 18 can include an outer panel 28 andan inner panel 30. In some embodiments, the lateral wall portion 18 canalso include a support panel 32 and/or an intermediate panel 44. Thepanels of the lateral wall portion 18 can be pivotably connected to oneanother, for example, along fold lines 34, 36, 38. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the outer panel 28 can be pivotably connected to the base 16 atfold line 26. The inner panel 30 can be pivotably connected to thesupport panel 32 at fold line 38. The intermediate panel 44 can bepivotably connected to the outer panel 28 and the inner panel 30 at foldlines 34, 36, respectively.

The fold lines described herein can be formed as perforations in thesubstantially rigid member 10, e.g., broken cut lines passing partiallyor completely through the material forming the substantially rigidmember 10. In the alternative, or in addition, the fold lines can becrushed portions of the material forming the substantially rigid member10. Depending on the material used to construct the substantially rigidmember 10, the fold lines can be formed as mechanical hinges, thinnedportions, adhesive tape, or any other appropriate mechanical connectionwhich would allow various portions of the substantially rigid member tobe folded, pivoted, and/or rotated with respect to each other. Theseconcepts apply to all of the fold lines described herein, although thisdescription may not be repeated with respect to any particular foldline.

As described herein, the panels of the lateral wall portion 18 can beconfigured to form a double wall portion when folded. In the illustratedembodiment, when the lateral wall portion 18 is folded upwardly andinwardly toward the base 16, the inner panel 30 forms an inner wall ofthe container and the outer panel 28 forms an outer wall. Theintermediate panel 44, in between fold lines 34, 36, can form an upperedge of the lateral wall portion 18.

The lateral wall portion 18 can also include structures for securing thewalls in place when folded. As illustrated in FIG. 1, one or more offold lines 34, 36, 38 and the fold line defining the edge 26 can be anon-straight line and can include one or more tabs 40 and/or apertures42 adapted to receive the tabs 40. Those skilled in the art canappreciate that the tabs 40 and apertures 42 can cooperate to maintainthe container portion 12 in the assembled configuration as a containerhaving an interior volume defined by a horizontal base portion and fourvertically extending wall portions. Furthermore, other structures forsecuring the lateral wall portion 18 in the assembled configuration canbe used.

In some embodiments, the inner panel 30 can be substantially narrowerthan the outer panel 28. In these embodiments, the lateral edges 44, 46of the inner panel 30 can be enlarged or can include tabs for securingthe inner panel 30. These embodiments can be advantageous because theinner panel 30 can affect one of the major dimensions (e.g., the width)of the substantially rigid member 10 when the substantially rigid member10 is in an unfolded, planar configuration. By reducing the overallwidth of the substantially rigid member, the overall size and thus thewaste of raw material used to form the substantially rigid member 10 canbe reduced.

For example, as is known in the art for using bulk cardboard, anythingcut from cardboard begins as a large rectangular piece. The largerectangular piece must be at least as large, in every dimension, as thefinal product. Thus, by reducing the greatest dimensions of the finishedpiece, the size of the original raw material can be reduced, thusresulting in less wasted cardboard.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the container portion 12 or a portion thereof,such as the lateral wall portion 18, can include the support panel 32.The support panel 32 can be configured to resist a force applied by anarticle 148 when the article is contained within the container. Asdescribed herein, when in an assembled configuration, the outer panel 28and the inner panel 30 can extend vertically and perpendicular to thebase 16, to form a double-walled container. In the assembledconfiguration, the support panel 32 can extend generally parallel to thebase 16. The support panel 32 can optionally include one or moreapertures 48 that are configured to accommodate the article to bepackaged. As described further herein, the support panel 32 can alsoinclude one or more pivotable flaps 50. The pivotable flaps 50 can belocated anywhere on the support panel 32 and can be configured toadjustably space the support panel 32 from the base 16, thus helping tosecure an article within the assembled package.

The end wall portion 22 can include a single wall panel 52. The singlewall panel 52 can be pivotably connected to the base 16 along a foldline 54. The end wall portion 22 can also include corner flaps 56, 58,connected to the single wall panel 52 along fold lines 60, 62. In someembodiments, a lid or tongue portion (not shown) can be connected to thesingle wall panel 52 at an upper edge 64.

The end wall portion 24 can include a single wall panel 72. The singlewall panel 72 can be pivotably connected to the base 16 along a foldline 74. The end wall portion 24 can also include corner flaps 76, 78,connected to the single wall panel 72 along fold lines 80, 82. The endwall portion 24, single wall panel 72, and corner flaps 76, 78 caninclude features and/or dimensions identical or similar to thosedescribed herein with respect to the end wall portion 22, single wallpanel 52, and/or corner flaps 56, 58, respectively. Those skilled in theart can appreciate that the depth of the cavity 126 formed when thecontainer portion 12 is in the assembled configuration can be determinedby the height of the outer panels 28, 210, and the single wall panels52, 72. In some embodiments, the height of each panel is about the same.In these embodiments, the height can be measured as the distance fromthe fold line adjacent the base 16 to the opposite fold line.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the single wall panel 72 can be pivotablyconnected to the article portion 14 along a fold line 84. In someembodiments, the article portion 14 can form a top portion of thesubstantially rigid member 10 when in the assembled configuration. Forexample, the article portion 14 can be a lid portion. In theseembodiments, the lid portion can form an outermost surface of thesubstantially rigid member when in the assembled, closed configuration.In other embodiments, the article portion 14 can form a tongue portionof the substantially rigid member. In these embodiments, thesubstantially rigid member can further include an additional lid portionextending from the article portion 14 or the container portion 12.

The article portion 14 can include a plurality of foldable portions,such as a base 86. The designation as a “base” does not impart anyparticular significance to that portion of the article portion 14.Rather, the base 86 in this embodiment forms a bottom or a top of thepackaging system described herein. For example, in some embodiments, thebase 86 can be a top panel of the article portion 14. The base can bepivotable relative to the container portion 12. The base 86 can includea periphery having four edges defined by fold lines 84, 88, 90, and 92.In some embodiments, the base 86 has a length and a width that are eachgenerally proportional to the length and the width of the base 16. Thebase 86 can also be slightly smaller than the base 16 so that thearticle portion 14 can fit snugly with the container portion 12 when inthe closed configuration. For example, in some embodiments the base 16can be an 11-inch square, and the base 86 can be a 10.5-inch square.

The article portion can further include first and second pivotable sideportions 94, 96. The first and second pivotable side portions 94, 96 canbe opposing side portions, e.g., they can pivotably extend from oppositeedges of the base 86 (e.g., the left and right edges). For brevity, theconstruction of the first pivotable side portion 94 will be described.However, it is to be understood that the second pivotable side portion96 also can include the same features. The first pivotable side portion94 can be pivotably connected to the base 86 of the article portion 14at the fold line 90. The first pivotable side portion 94 can include oneor more panels. For example, the first pivotable side portion 94 caninclude a first panel, such as an inner panel 98. The inner panel 98 caninclude a reduced width segment 214. At least a portion of the perimeterof segment 214 can be curved. The shape and dimensions of the reducedwidth segment 214 can ease the nesting of the article portion 14 intothe container portion 12 when the container is closed. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the inner panel 98 can be connected to the base 86 at the foldline 90. In some embodiments, the first pivotable side portion 94 caninclude two or more panels (e.g., two, three, four, or more panels). Asillustrated in FIG. 1, the first pivotable side portion can furtherinclude a middle panel 100 and an outer panel 102. The middle panel 100can be pivotably connected to the inner panel 98 and the outer panel 102via fold lines 104, 106. Thus, each of the panels 98, 100, 102 can bepivotably connected to at least one other panel.

The relative dimensions of the panels of the first pivotable sideportion 94 can vary. In some embodiments, the inner panel 98 can have amaximum width 212 that is greater than the widths of any of the otherpanels, e.g., the middle panel 100 and/or the outer panel 102. In theseembodiments, the width 212 of the inner panel 98 can define the depth ofthe article portion 14 when the article portion 14 is in a closedconfiguration. In some embodiments, the width 212 of the inner panel 98can be less than the depth of the container portion 12 when thecontainer portion 12 is in an assembled configuration. In theseembodiments, the width 212 of the inner panel 98 of the article portion14 can be less than the height of each of the wall panels 52, 72 and/oreach of the outer panels 28, 210 of the container portion 12 (whereinthe height is measured from the fold line adjacent the base to theopposite fold line). In other embodiments, the outer panel 102 of thearticle portion 14 can have a width (measured from fold line 106 to edge206) that is less than the height of each of the wall panels 52, 72and/or each of the outer panels 28, 210 of the container portion 12. Insome embodiments, the inner panel 98 can have a width 212 of about 2inches, the middle panel 100 can have a width of about 0.5 inches,and/or the outer panel 102 can have a width of about 1.25 inches.

An alternative embodiment of the article portion is illustrated in FIG.1A and is denoted by reference number 14′. In any of the embodimentsdescribed herein, article portion 14′ can be used as an alternative tothe article portion 14. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the article portion14′ can include a plurality of foldable portions, including a base 86′that is bounded by fold lines 84′, 88′, 90′, 92′. Those skilled in theart will recognize that the base and the four fold lines of the articleportion 14′ are substantially similar to the base 86 and fold lines 84,88, 90, 92 of article portion 14 described herein. Furthermore, althoughnot illustrated in FIG. 1A, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the base 86′ is pivotably connected to a securing portion similarto the securing portion 110 described herein along fold line 88′.Additionally, the base portion 86′ can be pivotably connected to asingle wall panel of a container portion, similar to the single wallpanel 72 of the container portion 12 described herein, along the foldline 84′.

The base 86′ can be sized similar to base 86 and, for example, can havea length and width that are generally proportional to the length andwidth of the base 16. In some embodiments, the base 86′ can be an11-inch square. In other embodiments, the base 86′ can have a length ofabout 12 inches and a width of about 14 inches, or vice versa.

The article portion 14′ can further include first and second pivotableside portions 316, 318. The first and second pivotable side portions316, 318 can pivotably extend from opposite edges of the base 86′, forexample, the left and right edges along fold lines 92′ and 90′. Forbrevity, the construction of the first pivotable side portion 316 willbe described. However, it is to be understood that the second pivotableside portion 318 can also include the same features.

The first pivotable side portion 316 can be pivotably connected to thebase 86′ of the article portion 14′ of the fold line 90′. The firstpivotable side portion 316 can include one or more panels. For example,the first pivotable side portion 316 can include a first panel, such asan outer panel 320. The outer panel 320 can be configured to couple withthe resilient member 128. The outer panel 320 can include a securingflap 322. The securing flap 322 can be connected pivotably to the outerpanel 320 along a fold line 324. The securing flap 322 can be disposedwithin a body portion of the outer panel 320. For example, the securingflap 322 can be surrounded by the outer panel 320 on all sides exceptalong the side defined by the fold line 324. In some embodiments, thesecuring flap 322 can have a free portion, such as one or more corners364, 366, that is configured to reversibly couple with the outer panel320, such as via a friction fit.

As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the outer panel 320 can have one more tabs326 that correspond with and are complementary to one or more cutouts328 in the securing flap 322. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the securingflap 322 and the outer panel 320 can both be pivotably connected alongthe fold line 324 to a second panel 330. The second panel 330 caninclude notches 334, 336, described further herein. Additionally, thesecond panel 330 can optionally be pivotably connected along fold line338 to a third panel 332. Thus, each of panels 320, 330 and 332 can bepivotably connected to at least one other panel. The relative dimensionsof the panels of the first pivotable side portion 316 can vary.

In some embodiments, the width 340 of the outer panel 320 can define thedepth of the article portion 14′ when the article portion 14″ is in aclosed configuration. In some embodiments, the width 340 of the outerpanel 320 can be less than the depth of the container portion 12 whenthe container portion 12 is in an assembled configuration, so that thearticle portion 14′ can nest within the container portion 12. In theseembodiments, the width 340 of the outer panel 320 of the article portion14′ can be less than the height of each of the wall panels 52, 72 and/oreach of the outer panels 28, 210 of the container portion 12 (where theheight is measured from the fold line adjacent the base 16 to theopposite fold line). In some embodiments, the width 342 of the secondpanel 330 can be greater than the width 340 of the outer panel 320. Inother embodiments, the outer panel 320 can have a maximum width 340 thatis generally equal to the maximum width 342 of the second panel 330. Insome embodiments, the outer panel 320 can have a width 340 of about 2.75inches. The second panel 330 can have a width 342 of about 3.25 inchesand/or the third panel 332 can have a width of about 1.75 inches.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the substantially rigid member 10 can furtherinclude a securing portion 110. The securing portion 110 can include anend wall 112 that is pivotable relative to the article portion 14. Insome embodiments, the securing portion 110 can be pivotably connected tothe base 86 of the article portion 14 at the fold line 88. The securingportion 110 can further include opposing flaps 114, 116, pivotablyconnected to opposite ends of the end wall 112 at fold lines 118, 120,respectively. The flaps 114, 116 can each have a perimeter, at least aportion of which is curved. In some embodiments, the end wall 112 canhave an inner surface 122 that is configured to contact an outer surfaceof the single wall panel 52 of the end wall portion 22 when thesubstantially rigid member 10 is in an assembled, closed configuration.

Advantageously, the substantially rigid member 10 described herein canform a fully enclosed container (e.g., substantially enclosing a cavityon all sides) from the container portion 12 and the article portion 14,without requiring other portions (e.g., a tongue portion, a suspensionportion, and/or a tensioning portion) attached to, e.g., the end wallportion 22. As described herein, in some embodiments the substantiallyrigid member 10 can be cut from a single rectangular substantially rigidmaterial, such as a piece of cardboard. The distance from the upper edge64 of the single wall panel 52 to the lower edge 124 of the end wall 112defines the outermost extremes of one of the dimensions (e.g., length orwidth) of the starting material. Those skilled in the art can appreciatethat a substantially rigid member having a length measured from thelower edge 124 to the upper edge 64 will have a smaller length than asubstantially rigid member having additional portions extending above orbelow either the securing portion 110 or the end wall portion 22 fromthe lower edge 124 or the upper edge 64, respectively. Assuming that allother dimensions (e.g., width) are the same, the substantially rigidmembers 10 described herein can be cut from a smaller piece of startingmaterial as compared to other substantially rigid members that caninclude additional portions. Advantageously, the substantially rigidmembers 10 described herein can form closed containers having the sameor similar internal dimensions as compared to other packages in the art,while requiring less starting material. Requiring less starting materialcan advantageously conserve both environmental and financial resources.

The assembly of the container portion 12 is illustrated in FIGS. 2-3. Inthe assembled configuration, the container portion 12 can be folded tocreate a cavity that is bounded by the base 16, lateral wall portions18, 20, and end wall portions 22, 24. In the assembled configuration,the single wall panel 52 of the end wall portion 22 can be foldedtowards the base 16 along fold line 54 such that the end wall portion 22is generally perpendicular to the base 16, as illustrated in FIG. 2.Additionally, the corner flaps 56, 58 can be folded towards the base 16along fold lines 60, 62, such that the corner flaps 56, 58 are generallyperpendicular to both the base 16 and the single wall panel 52, asillustrated in FIG. 2. In this configuration, the corner flaps 56, 58can also be generally parallel to the edges 26, 66. The corner flaps 56,58 can partially overlap each adjacent aperture 42. In some embodiments,the corner flaps 56, 58 can be generally parallel but also offset fromthe edges 26, 66, to define a spacing between, e.g., the corner flap 56and the outer panel 28. As described further herein, this spacing canreceive the flap 114 when the substantially rigid member is in thesecured configuration.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the single wall panel 72 of the end wallportion 24 can be folded towards the base 16 along the fold line 74 suchthat the end wall portion 24 is generally perpendicular to the base 16.The corner flaps 76, 78 can be folded towards the base 16 along the foldlines 80, 82, such that the corner flaps 76, 78 are generallyperpendicular to both the base 16 and the single wall panel 72, asillustrated in FIG. 2. In this configuration, the corner flaps 76, 78can also be generally parallel to the opposing edges 26, 66, of the base16. The corner flaps 76, 76 can, inc some embodiments, partially overlapeach adjacent aperture 42.

After the single wall panels 52, 72 have been folded upwards and thecorner flaps 56, 58, 76, 78 have been folded inwards, the lateral wallportions 18, 20 can be folded over the corner flaps 56, 58, 76, 78 asillustrated in FIG. 3. As such, for example, the corner flap 56 can besandwiched between the outer panel 28 and the inner panel 30. The cornerflap 76 can be sandwiched between the outer panel 28 and the inner panel30. In some embodiments, the corner flaps 56, 58, can each include anotch 68, 70. When in the assembled configuration, the notches 68, 70can provide a space to allow tab 40 to be received in the aperture 42.Without the notch 68, for example, the corner flap 56 can block theaperture 42. In other embodiments, the corner flap 56 can be shortenedso as to not block the aperture 42 from receiving the tab 40, or canonly partially block the aperture 42. The corner flaps 76, 78 can alsoinclude similar notches.

When in the assembled configuration, those skilled in the art canappreciate that folding along fold line 38 can create a first crease andfolding along fold line 26 can crate a second crease. As illustrated inFIG. 8, when in the assembled configuration, the first crease can nest,or fit into, the second crease.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, when the container portion 12 is in theassembled configuration, the inner panel 30 and the corresponding panelof the lateral wall portion 20 now form inner walls of a cavity 126.Similarly, the single wall panels 52, 72 form end walls of the cavity126, with the base 16 forming the bottom thereof.

The packaging systems described herein can include a resilient member128. In some embodiments, the packaging systems described herein caninclude a single resilient member 128. One embodiment of a resilientmember 128 is illustrated in FIG. 4. The resilient member 128 caninclude a resilient body 130. For purposes of convenience for thefollowing description, the resilient body 130 is identified as having amidpoint M positioned in the vicinity of the middle of the resilientbody 130. In some embodiments, the resilient member 128 can also includefirst and second pockets 132, 134 at opposite ends thereof. The pockets132, 134 can be configured to receive at least a portion of each of thefirst and second pivotable side portions 94, 96. In other embodiments,the resilient member 128 does not include pockets. For example, theresilient member 128 can be a single-layer, planar piece of film havingresilient properties. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilientmember 128 is formed of a single piece of resilient material, and issized to cooperate with the first and second pivotable side portions 94,96 of the article portion 14 of the substantially rigid member 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pockets 132, 134 are formed of folds136, 138 formed in the resilient body 130 which have been attached(e.g., heat sealed) along lateral opposite edges thereof. In thisembodiment, the heat sealing process forms heat sealing lines 140, 142,144, 146. The heat sealing lines 140, 142, 144, 146 can be continuous orformed of a plurality of heat sealed points.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that there are numerous methodsfor forming pockets in a resilient sheet material such as the resilientbody 130. However, it has been found that heat sealing is particularlyadvantageous as it does not require expensive adhesives and thetime-consuming steps required for using such adhesives. Regardless, suchadhesives can be used if desired.

The resilient member 128 has a length L₁ that is sized depending on theother devices with which the resilient member 128 is to cooperate. Thus,the length L₁ can be sized such that when the resilient member 128 isengaged with the first and second pivotable side portions 94, 96, itgenerates the desired tension for the corresponding application. In someembodiments, the length L₁ can be less than the length of the articleportion 14, where the length of the article portion 14 is measured asthe distance from edge 206 to edge 208. For example, the length L₁ canbe about 14 inches and the length of the article portion 14 can be about18 inches. In these embodiments, because the length L₁ of the resilientmember 128 is less than the length of the article portion 14, theresilient member 128 experiences tension when it is coupled with thearticle portion 14. Thus, the length L₁ will be smaller where a highertension is desired and will be larger where a lower tension is desired.Additionally, the length L₁ might be different for different sizedarticles that are to be packaged. Those skilled in the art can determinethe length L₁ for the desired application.

The resilient member 128 can be formed of any material that is plastic,elastic, pliable, resilient, flexible, and/or compliant. In use, theresilient member 128 can stretch and deform to fit the shape of anarticle over which it is stretched. In some embodiments, the resilientmember 128 can be made of a polymeric film, such as a polyethylene film.However, virtually any polymer, elastomer, or plastic film can be usedto form the resilient member 128. In some embodiments, the resilientmember 128 is a pliable film. The density of the film can be varied toprovide the desired retention characteristics such as overall strength,resiliency, and vibrational response. In some embodiments, the densityof the resilient member 128 is determined such that the resilient member128 is substantially resilient when used to package a desired article.

The resilient member 128 can be configured to couple with the articleportion 14 of the substantially rigid member 10. In some embodiments,the resilient member 128 is configured to couple with the first andsecond pivotable side portions 94, 96. As described herein, the couplingof the resilient member 128 with the article portion 14 can occur via avariety of mechanisms, including but not limited to inserting a portionof each of the first and second pivotable side portions 94, 96 into thepockets 132, 134.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5-6, in the assembled configuration, the innerpanel 98 of the article portion 14 can be folded towards the innersurface 108 of the base 86 along fold line 90. The middle panel 100 canbe folded away from the inner surface 108 of the base 86 along fold line104. The outer panel 102 can be folded away from the inner surface 108of the base 86 along fold line 106.

When the article portion 14 has achieved the assembled configurationillustrated in FIGS. 5-6, the first and second pivotable side portions94, 96 can be coupled with the resilient member 128. As illustrated inFIGS. 5-6, the first and second pivotable side portions 94, 96 can beplaced at least partially or fully into the pockets 132, 134 of theresilient member 128. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer panel 102and the corresponding structure on the second pivotable side portion 96are disposed within the pockets 132, 134. However, those skilled in theart can appreciate that in embodiments that do not include an outerpanel, the resilient member 128 can be coupled with other portions ofthe first and second pivotable side portions 94, 96.

As described herein, in some embodiments the resilient member 128 doesnot include pockets 132, 134. In these embodiments, the resilient member128 can be coupled with the first and second pivotable side portions 94,96, by any other method known in the art. For example, the resilientmember 128 can be attached or secured to at least a portion of the firstand/or second pivotable side portions 94, 96, for example with anadhesive or through heat sealing.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 and as described herein, the resilient member128 can be sized so that tension exists across the length L₁ of theresilient member 128 when it is coupled to the first and secondpivotable side portions 94, 96. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the resilientmember 128 stretches from the first pivotable side portion 94 to thesecond pivotable side portion 96. The resilient member 128 is separatedfrom the inner surface 108 of the base 86 of the article portion 14 bythe width 212 of the inner panel 98 and the corresponding width of theinner panel of the second pivotable side portion 96. Also, asillustrated in FIG. 6, the resilient member 128 does not contact theinner surface 108 of the base 86 when the inner panels are foldedtowards and perpendicular to the inner surface 108 of the base 86.

As described herein, in some embodiments the substantially rigid member10 can include article portion 14′. The article portion 14′ can also bemovable to an assembled configuration as illustrated in FIG. 6A. In FIG.6A, an assembled article portion 14 is shown attached to an assembledcontainer portion 12. In the assembled configuration, the outer panel320 can be folded towards the inner surface 360 of the base 86′ alongfold line 90′. The second panel 330 can also be folded towards the innersurface 360 along fold line 324. The third panel 332 can be foldedtowards the outer panel 320 along fold line 338. As illustrated in FIG.6A, when in the assembled configuration, the first pivotable sideportion 316 has a cross section generally in the shape of a righttriangle, wherein the outer panel 320 and the third panel 332 form withthe two legs and the second panel 330 forms the hypotenuse. The secondpivotable side portion 318 can be folded in a similar manner.

In some embodiments, the packaging kit can further include a retentionmember 344, which is illustrated in FIG. 6B. The retention member 344can include an elongate body 346, which is pivotably connected to twoflaps 348, 350 along fold lines 352, 354, respectively. As furtherillustrated in FIG. 6B, the body 346 can include one or more notches356, 358 along an edge of the body. The body 346 can have a width, asmeasured from fold line 352 to fold line 354, that is generally equal toor slightly less than the width of base 86′, as measured from fold line90 to fold line 92. The width of the flap 348, as measured from foldline 352 to the opposite edge, can be generally equal to or slightlyless than the width 340 of the outer panel 320. The width of the flap350 can be about the same as the width of the flap 348.

In embodiments that include a retention member 344, the retention member344 can be mated with the article portion 14′ as illustrated in FIG. 6C.In these embodiments, the notches 356, 358 on the retention member 344can mate with the notches 334 and the corresponding notch on the secondpivotable side portion 318. Although not illustrated, those skilled inthe art will appreciate that some embodiments can include two retentionmembers 344, wherein the first retention member 344 mates with the notch334 and the corresponding notch on the second pivotable side portion 18,while the second retention member 344 mates with the notch 336 on thefirst pivotable side portion and also with the corresponding notch onthe second pivotable side portion 318. As illustrated in FIG. 6C, theretention member 344 can be coupled with the article portion 14′. Thebody portion 346 of the retention member can be generally planar and canbe oriented generally parallel to the inner surface 360 of the base 86′.Flaps 348, 350 can be folded upwards along fold lines 352, 354 to extendat a generally right angle with respect to the body portion 346 of theretention member 344. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 6C, the flaps348, 350 can be generally parallel to the outer panel 320 on the firstpivotable side portion 316, as well as to the corresponding outer panelon the second pivotable side portion 318. Advantageously, the retentionmember 344 can help to maintain the triangular cross-sectional shape ofthe first and second pivotable side portions 316, 318 when they are inan assembled configuration. Accordingly, this configuration can yield amulti-wall construction where an inner wall, such as the second panel330, is securely spaced from the outer panel 320. As described furtherherein, spacing the inner panel from the outer wall can help to cushionthe article 148 therein from any bumps or other damage that may occur tothe outermost surface. Accordingly, this configuration of the articleportion 14′, optionally in combination with the retention member 344,can help to further secure the article 148. Once the article portion 14′is folded into the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6C, the articleportion 14′ can be coupled to a resilient member 128. As describedherein, at least a portion of the first and second pivotable sideportions 316, 318 can be coupled with the resilient member 128. Forexample, the securing flaps 322, 362 can be placed at least partially orfully into the pockets 132, 134 of the resilient member 128.

Once the resilient member 128 is coupled with the securing flaps 322,362, the resilient member and the securing flaps can be secured inplace, as illustrated in FIGS. 6D to 6E. This can be accomplished bytucking the corner of securing flaps 364, 366 into the outer panel 320such that the corners of the securing flaps 364, 366 are held in afriction fit with the outer panel 320, as illustrated in FIG. 6E. Asillustrated in FIG. 6D, when the securing flaps 322 are mated with theouter panel 320, tension can be created across the resilient member 128.As illustrated in FIG. 6D, resilient member 128 can be nearly planarwhen the securing flaps 322, 362 have been coupled with the outer panel320. As described herein, the tension across the resilient member 128contributes to securing the article 148 that is secured within thecontainer. Advantageously, tension across the resilient member 128 canbe established and maintained without the use of additional materialssuch as glue, tape, staples, or the like.

When the substantially rigid member 10 has been assembled as describedherein and coupled with the resilient member 128, an article 148 to bepackaged can be placed into the cavity 126. When received in the cavity126, the article 148 can directly contact and/or be placed on the base16, the support panel 32, and/or the support panel 154. Thesubstantially rigid member 10 can then be closed.

In the closed configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, at least a partof the article portion 14 can be nested or placed in the containerportion 12. As illustrated in FIG. 8, in the closed configuration, afirst panel, such as the inner panel 98, can be folded towards an innersurface 108 of the base 86 along fold line 90, such that the inner panel98 is generally perpendicular to the base 86. Where the first pivotableside portion 94 further includes a middle panel 100, the middle panel100 can be folded away from the inner surface 108 of the base 86 alongfold line 104, such that the middle panel 100 is generally perpendicularto the inner panel 98 and generally parallel to the base 86. Where thefirst pivotable side portion 94 further includes an outer panel 102, theouter panel 102 can be folded away from the inner surface 108 of thebase 86 along fold line 106, such that the outer panel 102 is generallyparallel to the inner panel 98 and generally perpendicular to the base86. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the middle panel 100 can space the innerpanel 98 from the outer panel 102 to yield a double-wall construction.Advantageously, the space created between the inner panel 98 and theouter panel 102 can act to absorb shock and further cushion the articlebeing packaged.

When the substantially rigid member is moved to the closedconfiguration, each of the first and second pivotable side portions 94,96 can space the resilient member 128 from the base of the articleportion 14. As illustrated in FIG. 8, when the article portion 14 isnested in the container portion 12, the inner panels 98, 150 space theresilient member 128 from the opposite side edges of the base 86, asdefined by fold lines 90, 92, at least by a distance defined by thewidth 212, 152 of the inner panels 98, 150. As further illustrated inFIG. 8, the resilient member 128 is positioned adjacent the innersurface 108 of the base 86 of the article portion 14. The resilientmember 128 can be pressed over the article 148, helping to secure thearticle 148 in place. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that thetension in the resilient member 128 created as the resilient member 128stretches over the article 148 can help to secure the article 148 inplace. The support panels 32, 154 can further help to cushion and securethe article 148, and are described further herein.

Although not illustrated herein, those skilled in the art willappreciate that article portion 14′ can be pivotably moved to a closedconfiguration in the same way as described herein with respect to thearticle portion 14. When in the closed configuration, the articleportion 14′ can be nested in the container portion 12. Each of the outerpanels can space the resilient member 128 from the base of the articleportion at least by a distance defined by a width each of the outerpanels, such as width 340. Furthermore, the second panel 330, optionallyin combination with one or more retention members 344, yields amultiwall construction that can space the article 148 from the outermostwalls of the container, thus advantageously providing further protectionto the article 148 from outside forces. Additionally, those skilled inthe art will appreciate that when the article portion 14′ is in theclosed configuration, the resilient member 128 can be pressed over thearticle 148 to contribute to securing the article 148, as describedherein with respect to the article portion 14 as illustrated in FIG. 8.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, in the closed configuration, the flaps 114,116 can be folded towards the inner surface 122 of the end wall 112along fold lines 118, 120, such that the flaps 114, 116 can be generallyperpendicular to the end wall 112. The end wall 112 can be pivotedtowards the inner surface 108 of the base 86, such that the innersurface 122 of the end wall 112 can contact the outer surface of thesingle wall panel 52. When the end wall 112 is pivoted towards the base86, the folded flap 114 can be inserted into a space between the cornerflap 56 and the outer panel 28 of the container portion 12. The foldedflap 116 can be inserted into a space between the corner flap 58 and theouter panel of the lateral wall portion 20. When the article portion 14is pivoted along fold line 84 and nested in the container portion 12,the end wall 112 is pivoted along fold line 88 towards the single wallpanel 52, and the flaps 114, 116 are folded perpendicular to thesecuring portion 110 and received by the container portion 12, then thesubstantially rigid member is in its fully assembled, closed, andsecured configuration.

As described herein, in some embodiments, the article portion of thesubstantially rigid member 10 can be a tongue portion instead of a lidportion. In these embodiments, the substantially rigid member canfurther include a separate top panel that forms an outermost surface ofthe resulting container. One embodiment of a substantially rigid member10″ that includes a tongue portion 368 and a top panel 370 isillustrated in FIG. 18. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the substantiallyrigid member 10″ can include a container portion 12″ and a tongueportion 368. The tongue portion 368 can be substantially similar to thearticle portion 14 and/or the article portion 14′ described herein,except that the tongue portion 368 does not include a securing portion110. Furthermore, the tongue portion 368 does not form an outermostsurface of the assembled container when it is in a closed configuration.

Container portion 12″ can be generally similar to container portion 12,although in some embodiments the end wall portion 22″ and/or the endwall portion 24″ can be modified. For example, the end wall portion 24″can include a single wall panel 72″ and flaps 76″, 78″. The single wallpanel 72″ and flaps 76″, 78″ can each have a width (also referred to asa “height” when in the assembled configuration) that is less than thewidth of the outer panels 28, 210 and also that is less than the widthof single wall panel 52″.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, a single wall panel 72″ can be shorter thansingle panel 52″ in order to allow the top panel 370 to comfortably passover the tongue portion 368 to close the container. Those skilled in theart will appreciate that if the single wall panel 72″ and the singlewall panel 52″ were the same height, then the tongue portion 368 mightinterfere with the top panel 370 when the top panel 370 is folded overthe tongue portion 368, and can prevent the container from fullyclosing.

As further illustrated in FIG. 18, single wall panel 52″ can be modifiedin that instead of having a fold line 64, the single wall panel 52″ hasa fold line 62″ that pivotably connects the single wall panel 52″ to thetop panel 370. The top panel 370 can be further pivotably connected to awall panel 372 via a fold line 374. The wall panel 372 can also bepivotably connected on opposite ends to corner flaps 376, 378 by meansof fold lines 380, 382. The dimensions of the top panel 370 can vary.Generally, the dimensions of the top panel 370 can be equal to thedimensions of the base 16. In some embodiments, the dimensions of thetop panel 370 can be slightly greater than the dimensions of the tongueportion 368. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that this isbecause the tongue portion 368 can nest within the container portion12″, whereas the top panel 370 can cover the tongue portion 368 to forman outermost surface of the container. The dimensions of the wall panel372 can be generally equal to or slightly greater than the dimensions ofthe single wall panel 72″. When in an assembled closed configuration,the wall panel 372 will cover the single wall panel 72″.

To assemble the substantially rigid member 10″, the container portion12″ can be assembled as described herein with regards to containerportion 12. The tongue portion 368 can also be assembled generally asdescribed herein with regards to article portion 14 and/or article 14″.Accordingly the tongue portion 368 can be coupled with a resilientmember. An article can be placed into the cavity 126 that is formed bythe container portion 12″ in the assembled configuration. The tongueportion 368, when coupled with a resilient member, can be nested orplaced in the container portion 12″ in a manner described herein withregards to the article portion 14 and/or the article portion”. At thatpoint, the resilient member can be pressed over the article that is inthe cavity helping to secure the article in place.

One example of a tongue portion 368 nested in a container portion 12″ isillustrated in FIG. 19. As illustrated in FIG. 19, the top panel 370 canbe folded along fold line 64″ towards the tongue portion 368. In thisconfiguration, the top panel 370 can generally cover and can begenerally parallel to the tongue portion 368. Furthermore, asillustrated in FIG. 19, the top panel 370 can form an outermost surfaceof the container. The corner flaps 376, 378 can then be folded alongfold lines 380, 382 towards an inner surface of the wall panel 376,similar to the manner described herein with regards to the substantiallyrigid member 10 as illustrated in FIG. 9. In this configuration, thecorner flaps 376, 378 can be generally perpendicular to the wall panel372. As illustrated in FIG. 19, the wall panel 372 can be pivotedtowards the single wall panel 72″ in the direction indicated by thearrow, such that an inner surface of the wall panel 372 can contact anouter surface of the single wall panel 72″. When the wall panel 372 ispivoted towards the single wall panel 72″, the folded corner 376 can beinserted into a space between the corner flap 76″ and the outer panel28″ of the container portion 12″, similar to the analogous components ofthe securing portion 110 described herein. The folded corner flap 378can be inserted into a space between the corner flap 78″ and the outerpanel 210 of the lateral wall portion 20. At this point, thesubstantially rigid member 10″ can be in its fully assembled and closedconfiguration.

Some embodiments herein are directed to a substantially rigid memberthat can include a container portion 12 having a support panel 32, 154that includes one or more pivotable flaps 156, 158, 160, 162, 164, 166,as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 10-13. As illustrated in FIG. 10, thepivotable flaps 156, 158 can be located at the outer edges 168, 170 ofthe support panels 32, 154. The pivotable flaps 156, 158 can have threefree edges and can be connected to the support panel 32, 154 by a foldline 172, 174. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the fold line 172, 174 canextend generally perpendicular to the fold lines 38, 176 that define theside wall boundaries of the cavity 126. The pivotable flaps 156, 158 canbe spaced from the inner panels 30, 178 by a distance 180, 182,respectively.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the pivotable flaps 156, 158 can be foldedunder the support panels 32, 154 and towards the base 16. This step canbe completed when the container portion 12 is being folded into theassembled configuration. Upon folding, the pivotable flaps 156, 158 donot fully contact the base 16. Those skilled in the art can appreciatethat the area of contact between the pivotable flaps 156, 158 and thebase 16 can increase as a downward force (e.g., a force applied in adirection towards the base 16) is applied to the pivotable flaps 156,158. The pivotable flaps 156, 158 can experience an increase in downwardforce for a variety of reasons, such as placing an article onto thesupport panels 32, 154. In another embodiment, when the substantiallyrigid article 10 is arranged in the closed configuration such that thearticle portion 14 is nested in the container portion 12, the tensionapplied to the article 148 by the resilient member 128 and/or thearticle portion 14 can result in the application of force to thepivotable flaps 156, 158.

Advantageously, the pivotable flaps 156, 158 can act as compressionsprings that absorb force when pressed towards the base 16. In addition,the pivotable flaps 156, 158 in their folded positions provide an upwardforce that acts in an opposite direction as compared to the force beingapplied by the article 148, resilient member 128, and/or article portion14. This combination of forces helps to secure the article 148 in atight fit within the cavity 126. The upward force can also space thearticle 148 from the base 16, further protecting the article 148 frombumps or other damage that can occur to the exterior of the base 16.

Additional embodiments of pivotable flaps 160, 162, 164, 166 areillustrated in FIG. 11. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that inFIG. 11, the end wall portion 22 is depicted in an unfolded state so asto more clearly illustrate the pivotable flaps 164, 166. In use,however, the end wall portion 22 can be folded upwards and the cornerflaps 56, 58 secured between the inner and outer panels of the lateralwall portions 18, 20. Pivotable flap 160 is located in a body portion ofthe support panel 32, as opposed to an edge portion. Pivotable flap 160is generally rectangular with three free edges and a fold line 184 thatextends generally parallel to the fold lines 38. The fold line 184 isseparated from the fold line 38 by a distance 188 that is generallyequal to a width 190 of the pivotable flap 160. To assemble pivotableflap 160, the pivotable flap 160 is folded under the support panel andtowards the base. The pivotable flap 160 in the folded position isillustrated in FIG. 12.

Because the pivotable flap 160 is separated from the fold line 38 by adistance generally equal to the width of 190 of the pivotable flap 160,when the pivotable flap 160 is folded, an edge 192 of the pivotable flap160 is wedged into a crease created by fold line 26. Accordingly, thepivotable flap 160 can interfere with the crease created by fold line26.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that when the pivotable flap 160is in an interference position with the crease, the support panel can beprevented from fully contacting the base 16. When an article 148 isplaced on a support panel that includes a pivotable flap 160, thepivotable flap 160 can prevent the article 148 from directly contactingthe base 16. As described herein the space between the article 148 andthe base 16 can help to cushion the article 148 from any bumps or damagethat can occur to the exterior of the base 16. Additionally, asdescribed herein with respect to the pivotable flaps 156, 158, thepivotable flap 160 in the folded position can exert an upwards force(e.g., a force in the opposite direction as that which is being appliedby the article 148, resilient member 128, and/or article portion 14) tothe article 148. This upwards force can provide a tight fit for thearticle 148 and contribute to securing the article within the cavity126.

In some embodiments, the support panel can include pivotable flap 162.The pivotable flap 162, as illustrated in FIG. 11-12, is similar to thepivotable flap 160, except that the pivotable flap 162 further includesa latch mechanism that retains the pivotable flap 162 in a pivotedposition. The latch mechanism can include a latch 194 that is configuredto be received within an aperture 196. In this embodiment, the latch 194is configured as a tab, and the aperture has a size and shape configuredto receive the tab therein in a friction fit. However, those skilled inthe art can appreciate that other latch styles can be used to secure thepivotable flap 162 in the folded position. Advantageously, the pivotableflap 162 can be folded towards the base 16 along fold line 186 andsecured in place with the combination of the latch 194 and aperture 196.This embodiment can be useful in assembly processes where it isimportant for a pivotable flap to be secure in its folded position.

In other embodiments, the support panel can include pivotable flap 164,as illustrated in FIGS. 11-13. The pivotable flap 164 can extend outsideof the perimeter of the support panel 32. Similar to the pivotable flap156, the pivotable flap 164 can be connected to the support panel 32 bya fold line 198 that extends generally perpendicular to the fold 38. Thepivotable flap 164 can include an edge 200 that is aligned with the fold38. Accordingly, when the pivotable flap 164 is folded towards the base16 (e.g., downwards), the pivotable flap 164 can be in an interferencefit with a crease defined by the fold 26, as illustrated in FIGS. 12-13.The pivotable flap 164 can function in a manner similar to thatdescribed for the pivotable flap 160.

In yet other embodiments, the support panel can include pivotable flap166, as illustrated in FIGS. 11-13. The pivotable flap 166 is similar tothe pivotable flap 164, except that it includes a latch 202 that isconfigured to be received within an aperture 204. In this embodiment,the latch 202 is in the shape of a flange, and the aperture has a sizeand shape for receiving and retaining the flange therein. However, thoseskilled in the art can appreciate that other latch styles can be used tosecure the pivotable flap 166 in the folded position. As illustrated inFIG. 13, the pivotable flap 166, when in the folded position, can be inan interference fit with a crease defined by the fold line 66.

In use, a downward force F can be applied to the support panels 32and/or 154. For example, the downward force F can be applied by anarticle that is placed within the cavity of the container portion andonto the support panels. As illustrated in FIG. 13, as the force F isapplied to the support panel 154, a portion of the support panel 154 canbe deflected into a deflected position 155. However, the pivotable flap166 in the folded position can interfere with and thus hinder thesupport panel 154 from fully contacting the base 16. Accordingly, thesupport panel 154 can resist the downward force F. Those skilled in theart can therefore appreciate that the support panel 154 and thepivotable flap 166 together can operate as a leaf spring that cansuspend the article and absorb outside forces such as bumps, vibrations,and the like. The support panel 32 and the pivotable flap 164 can alsooperate together as a leaf spring for these same reasons.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that all of the substantiallyrigid members 10 described herein can include one or more pivotableflaps 156, 158, 160, 162, 164, and/or 166 in any combination. Forexample, the substantially rigid members illustrated in FIGS. 10-13 caninclude a container portion, an article portion, a securing portion,and/or any of their respective features as described herein.Furthermore, in some embodiments, the substantially rigid member 10 doesnot include any pivotable flaps 156, 158, 160, 162, 164, and/or 166.Those skilled in the art can also appreciate that the positions of thepivotable flaps 156, 158, 160, 162, 164, and/or 166 as illustrated inFIGS. 10-13 are provided as examples, and that other positions can alsobe used. For example, in some embodiments the pivotable flap 156 can belocated adjacent the end wall portion 22, rather than the end wallportion 24. Similarly, in some embodiments the pivotable flap 164 can belocated adjacent the end wall portion 24, rather than the end wallportion 22.

Some embodiments herein are directed to a packaging kit that can includea removable retention member 216 that is configured to fit within thecavity 126 of the container portion 12. In some embodiments, theremovable retention member 216 can be configured to fit completely orwholly within the cavity 126. The removable retention member 216 caninclude a frame 218 and a second resilient member 220 configured tocouple with the frame 218. The removable retention member 216 can bereversibly movable from a planar unassembled configuration, illustratedin FIGS. 14-15, to a non-planar assembled configuration, illustrated inFIG. 16.

The frame 218 in an unassembled configuration is illustrated in FIG. 14.As illustrated in FIG. 14, the frame 218 can include an interfacingpanel 222. The interfacing panel 222 can include a periphery having fouredges defined by fold lines 222, 224, 226, 228. The periphery candelineate the size and shape of the interfacing panel 222. As describedherein, the removable retention member 216 can be configured to fitwithin the cavity 126 of the container portion 12. Accordingly, the size(e.g., dimensions) of the interfacing panel 222 can be chosen by one ofordinary skill in the art depending on the size (e.g., dimensions) ofthe cavity 126. For example, the interfacing panel 222 can have a lengthand a width that are each less than the length and the width of the base16. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the interfacing panel can have four edgesdefined by the four fold lines and can be square-shaped. However, thoseskilled in the art can appreciate that the interfacing panel 222 canhave other dimensions (e.g., square or rectangular) for use in packagingmodems, hard drives, or any other article that is to be packaged in thepackaging systems described herein.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the interfacing panel 222 can include awindow 232. The window 232 can be cut out from the body of theinterfacing panel 222, such that the interfacing panel 222 surrounds thewindow 232 in at least one plane. As described further herein, thesecond resilient member 220 can cover the window 232 to contact thearticle 18. Accordingly, the size (e.g., dimensions) and shape of thewindow 232 can be chosen by one of ordinary skill in the art dependingon the size and shape of the article 148. In some embodiments, thelength and width of the window 232 will be larger than the length andwidth of the article 148. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the window 232 canbe in the shape of a square with rounded corners. However, those skilledin the art can appreciate that the interfacing panel 222 can have otherdimensions (e.g., square, rectangular, circular, or variations thereof)for use in packaging modems, hard drives, or any other article that isto be packaged in the packaging systems described herein.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the interfacing panel 222 can include one ormore apertures 242. The aperture can be configured to receive a tabdisposed on an inner panel of one of the lateral wall portions 234, 236,as discussed further herein. The aperture 242 can be aligned with (e.g.,can have one edge along) one of the fold lines 226, 230 that pivotablyconnects one of the lateral wall portions 234, 236. In some embodiments,the interfacing panel 222 has two apertures 242 (e.g., one along eachfold line 226, 230). In other embodiments, the interfacing panel 222 hasfour apertures 242 (e.g., two along each fold line 226, 230).

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the frame 218 can include opposing lateralwall portions 234, 236 that extend from the periphery of the interfacingpanel 222. The opposing lateral wall portions 234, 236 can pivotablyextend from opposite edges 226, 230, as illustrated in FIG. 14. In someembodiments, the opposing lateral wall portions 234, 236 can pivotablyextend from left and right edges, respectively, of the interfacing panel222. The frame 218 can also include opposing end wall portions 238, 240that extend from the periphery of the interfacing panel 222. Theopposing end wall portions 238, 240 can pivotably extend from oppositeedges 224, 228, as illustrated in FIG. 14. In some embodiments, theopposing end wall portions 238, 240 can pivotably extend from the frontand back edges, respectively, of the interfacing panel 222. In someembodiments, the opposing wall portions 234, 236, 238, 240 can bereferred to as the left, right, back, and front walls of the frame 218,respectively.

For brevity, the construction of the lateral wall portion 234 will bedescribed. However, it is to be understood that the lateral wall portion236 also can include the same features. The lateral wall portion 236 canbe pivotably connected to the interfacing panel 22 at fold line 230. Asillustrated in FIG. 14, the fold line 230 can define one edge of theinterfacing panel 222. The lateral wall portion 234 can include one ormore panels. For example, the lateral wall portion 234 can include anouter panel 244 and an inner panel 246. In some embodiments, the lateralwall portion 234 can include an intermediate panel 248. The panels ofthe lateral wall portion 234 can be pivotably connected to one another,for example, along fold lines 250, 252. As illustrated in FIG. 14, theouter panel 244 can be pivotably connected to the interfacing panel 222at fold line 230. The intermediate panel 248 can be pivotably connectedto the outer panel 244 and the inner panel 246 at fold lines 250, 252,respectively.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the fold lines describedherein with respect to the frame 218 of the removable retention member216 can have all of the properties of the fold lines described hereinwith respect to the substantially rigid member 10. For example, the foldlines can be formed as perforations in the frame 218, e.g., broken cutlines passing partially or completely through the material forming theframe 218. Furthermore, the frame 218 can be constructed from any of thematerials described herein with respect to the substantially rigidmember 10. For example, the frame 218 can be formed from a single wallcorrugated C-flute cardboard.

The panels of the lateral wall portion 234 can be configured to form adouble wall portion when folded. In the illustrated embodiment, when thelateral wall portion 234 is folded upwardly and inwardly toward theinterfacing panel 222, the inner panel 246 forms an inner wall of theassembled frame 218 and the outer panel 244 forms an outer wall. Theintermediate panel 248, in between fold lines 250, 252, can form abottom edge of the lateral wall portion 234.

The lateral wall portion 234 can also include structures for securingthe walls in place when folded. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the innerpanel 246 can include one or more tabs 254 extending from an edge of theinner panel 246 that is opposite of the fold line 252. As describedfurther herein, the tabs 254 can be received in the apertures 242 whenthe frame 218 is in the assembled configuration. Accordingly, thenumber, size, and position of the tabs 254 can be adjusted based on thenumber, size, and position of the apertures 242. Those skilled in theart can appreciate that the tabs 254 and the apertures 242 can cooperateto maintain the frame 218 in the assembled configuration wherein theinterfacing panel 222 extends generally horizontally and the wallportions assemble into four walls extending generally vertically.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the width 256 of the outerpanel 244 can generally define the height of the assembled frame 218. Insome embodiments, the inner panel 246 can have a width (not includingthe tabs 254) that is generally equal to the width 256 of the outerpanel 244.

For brevity, the construction of the end wall portion 238 will bedescribed. However, it is to be understood that the end wall portion 240also can include the same features. The end wall portion 238 can includea single wall portion 260. The single wall panel 260 can be pivotablyconnected to the interfacing panel 222 along the fold line 224. The endwall portion 238 can also include corner flaps 262, 264 connected to thesingle wall panel 260 along fold lines 266, 268. The single wall panel260 can have a width 270 that is generally the same as the width of theouter panel 244. When in the assembled configuration, the widths of thesingle wall panels and the widths of the outer panels can define theheight of the frame 218.

The removable retention member 216 can also include a second resilientmember 272, illustrated in FIG. 15. The second resilient member 272 caninclude many of the same features as the resilient member 128. Thesecond resilient member 272 can include a resilient body 274. Forpurposes of convenience for the following description, the resilientbody 274 is identified as having a midpoint M₂ positioned in thevicinity of the middle of the resilient body 274. In some embodiments,the second resilient member 272 can also include first and secondpockets 276, 278 at opposite ends thereof. As described herein, thesecond resilient member 272 can be configured to couple with the frame218. Accordingly, the pockets 276, 278 can be configured to receive atleast a portion of each of the lateral wall portions 234, 236. In otherembodiments, the second resilient member 272 does not include pockets.For example, the second resilient member 272 can be a single-layer,planar piece of film having resilient properties. In the illustratedembodiment, the second resilient member 272 is formed of a single pieceof resilient material, and is sized to cooperate with the lateral wallportions 234, 236 of the frame 218.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pockets 276, 276 are formed of folds280, 282 formed in the resilient body 274 which have been attached(e.g., heat sealed) along lateral opposite edges thereof. In thisembodiment, the heat sealing process forms heat sealing lines 284, 286,288, 290. The heat sealing lines 284, 286, 288, 290 can be continuous orformed of a plurality of heat sealed points.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that there are numerous methodsfor forming pockets in a resilient sheet material such as the resilientbody 274. However, it has been found that heat sealing is particularlyadvantageous as it does not require expensive adhesives and thetime-consuming steps required for using such adhesives. Regardless, suchadhesives can be used if desired.

The second resilient member 272 has a length L₂ that is sized dependingon the other devices with which the second resilient member 272 is tocooperate. Thus, the length L₂ can be sized such that when the secondresilient member 272 is engaged with the lateral wall portions 234, 236,it generates the desired tension for the corresponding application. Insome embodiments, the length L₂ can be less than the length of the frame218, where the length of the frame 218 is measured as the distance fromtab edge 292 to tab edge 294. For example, the length L₂ can be about 18inches and the length of the frame 218 can be about 19 inches. In theseembodiments, because the length L₂ of the second resilient member 272 isless than the length of the frame 218, the second resilient member 272experiences tension when it is coupled with the frame 218. Thus, thelength L₂ will be smaller where a higher tension is desired and will belarger where a lower tension is desired. Additionally, the length L₂might be different for different sized articles that are to be packaged.Those skilled in the art can determine the length L₂ for the desiredapplication.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, the second resilient member 272 also has awidth W that is sized depending on the other devices with which thesecond resilient member 272 is to cooperate (e.g., the frame 218). Insome embodiments, the second resilient member 272 is configured tocompletely cover the window 232 of the frame 218. Accordingly, thesecond resilient member 272 can have a width W that is at least equal tothe width of the window 232, where the width of the window 232 ismeasured generally as the shortest distance from the edge adjacent tofold line 224 to the edge adjacent to fold line 228. In someembodiments, the width W of the second resilient member 272 can begenerally equal to the width of the interfacing panel 222, wherein thewidth of the interfacing panel is defined as the shortest distance fromfold line 224 to fold line 228.

The second resilient member 272 can be formed of any of the materialsdisclosed herein as being suitable for the resilient member 128. In someembodiments, the second resilient member 272 can be made of a polymericfilm, such as a polyethylene film.

The second resilient member 272 can be configured to couple with thelateral wall portions 234, 236 of the frame 218. As described herein,the coupling of the second resilient member 272 with the frame 218 canoccur via a variety of mechanisms, including but not limited toinserting at least a portion of each of the inner panels 246, 296 intothe pockets 276, 278.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, in the assembled configuration, the singlewall panels 260, 298 can be folded towards the interfacing panel 222along fold lines 224, 228, respectively, such that the end wall portions238, 240 are generally perpendicular to the interfacing panel 222.Additionally, the corner flaps 262, 264, 300, 302 can be folded towardthe base along fold lines 266, 268, 304, 306 such that the corner flaps262, 264, 300, 302 are generally perpendicular to the interfacing panel222 and the single wall panels 260, 298. In this configuration, thecorner flaps 262, 264, 300, 302 can also be generally parallel to foldlines 226, 230. In some embodiments, the corner flaps 262, 264, 300, 302can be generally parallel but also offset (e.g., just inside) from thefold lines 226, 230, so as to not interfere with the folding of theouter panels 244, 308.

Either before or after this step, the second resilient member 272 can becoupled with the frame 218. At least a portion of each of the innerpanels 246, 296 can be at least partially or fully placed into thepockets 276, 278 of the second resilient member 272. The resilientmember 272 can contact an outer surface of the interfacing panel 222(e.g., the surface opposite the inner surface 310 illustrated in FIG.14.

After the single wall panels 260, 298 have been folded upwards and thecorner flaps 262, 264, 300, 302 have been folded inwards, the lateralwall portions 234, 236 can be folded over the corner flaps 262, 264,300, 302. The tabs 254 can also be secured in the apertures 242. Assuch, for example, the corner flap 300 can be sandwiched between theouter panel 244 and the inner panel 246. In some embodiments, the cornerflaps 262, 264, 300, 302 can include a notch similar to the notch 68, 70described with respect to corner flaps 56, 58, above.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, when in the assembled configuration, thesecond resilient member 272 stretches taut across the outer surface ofthe interfacing panel 222 (and also across the outer surface of theouter panels 244, 296) to cover the window 232. Accordingly, the secondresilient member 272 is generally planar and exhibits tension across thewindow 232.

A cross sectional view of an assembled packaging kit that includes asubstantially rigid member 10 coupled to a first resilient member 128and a removable retention member 216 coupled to a second resilientmember 272 is illustrated in FIG. 17.

In use, the assembled removable retention member 216 is placed into thecavity 126 of the container portion 12 of any of the substantially rigidmembers 10 described herein, such as that illustrated in FIG. 17. Theassembled removable retention member 216 is oriented such that thesecond resilient member 272 comprises a top surface for contactingarticle 148, with a cavity 314 below. The intermediate panels 248, 312comprise a bottom surface that contacts the bottom (e.g., the base 16)of the container portion 12. An article 148 can be placed on the secondresilient member 272. The downward force of the article 148 iscounteracted at least in part by the tension exhibited across the secondresilient member 272. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the article 148 isdistanced from the base 16 of the container portion 12. Advantageously,distancing or spacing the article 148 from any of the outer walls of thecontainer can help to insulate the article 148 from any outside forces.As illustrated in FIG. 17, the article portion 14 can then be moved to aclosed configuration similar to that illustrated in FIG. 8 and describedin the accompanying description. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the article148 can be advantageously suspended from both the top and bottom wallsof the container. Furthermore, the two resilient members 128, 272 cancooperate to provide a snug fit around the article 148, minimizingshifting or movement of the article 148 within the container, e.g.,during transit.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, thepackaging kits described herein can include a removable retention member216 instead of one or more support panels 32, 154, or vice versa. Inother embodiments, the packaging kit can include a removable retentionmember 216 and one or more support panels 32, 154.

Although the present inventions have been described in terms of certainembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art also are within the scope of these inventions. Thus, variouschanges and modifications can be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the inventions. For instance, various components can berepositioned as desired. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects andadvantages are necessarily required to practice the present inventions.

1. A packaging kit for packaging an article, comprising: a substantiallyrigid member comprising: a container portion configured to form aportion of a container capable of containing an article; and a lidportion comprising at least a top panel and two opposing pivotable sideportions, the top panel being pivotable relative to the containerportion; the lid portion further configured to be movable between anopen configuration and a closed configuration, wherein when in theclosed configuration, at least a portion of each of the two opposingpivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surface of thetop panel at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the interiorsurface; and a pliable film configured to couple with the opposingpivotable side portions, wherein when the pliable film is coupled withthe opposing pivotable side portions and the lid portion is in theclosed configuration, each of the opposing pivotable side portions spacethe pliable film from the top panel.
 2. The packaging kit of claim 1,wherein the container portion comprises at least a bottom panel havingfour edges, opposing side wall portions pivotably extending from two ofthe edges, and opposing end wall portions pivotably extending from theother two edges.
 3. A packaging kit for packaging an article,comprising: a substantially rigid member comprising: a container portionconfigured to form a portion of a container capable of containing anarticle; and an article portion comprising at least a base and first andsecond pivotable side portions, the base being pivotable relative to thecontainer portion; the article portion further configured to be movablebetween an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in theclosed configuration at least a portion of each of the first and secondpivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surface of thebase of the article portion; and a resilient member configured to couplewith the first and second pivotable side portions, wherein when theresilient member is coupled with the first and second pivotable sideportions and the article portion is in the closed configuration, each ofthe first and second pivotable side portions space the resilient memberfrom the base of the article portion.
 4. The packaging kit of claim 3,wherein the substantially rigid member further comprises a securingportion having an end wall and two opposing flaps, the end wallpivotable relative to the article portion and configured to contact anouter surface of another of the opposing end wall portions.
 5. Thepackaging kit of claim 3, wherein the resilient member comprises a bodyportion and first and second pockets disposed at opposite ends of thebody portion, and wherein each of the first and second pockets areconfigured to receive at least a portion of each of the first and secondpivotable side portions.
 6. The packaging kit of claim 3, wherein thefirst and second pivotable side portions each comprise an outer panelconfigured to couple with the resilient member.
 7. The packaging kit ofclaim 6, wherein a securing flap disposed within a body portion of theouter panel, the securing flap configured to couple with the resilientmember and having a free portion that is configured to reversibly couplewith the outer panel.
 8. The packaging kit of claim 7, wherein thesecuring flap comprises a corner that is configured to reversibly couplewith the outer panel in a friction fit.
 9. The packaging kit of claim 3,wherein the resilient member is configured to be attached to at least aportion of each of the first and second pivotable side portions.
 10. Thepackaging kit of claim 3, wherein the resilient member and the articleportion each have a length extending in generally the same direction,the length of the resilient member being less than the length of thearticle portion.
 11. The packaging kit of claim 3, wherein the first andsecond pivotable side portions each comprise three panels, and whereineach panel is pivotably connected to at least one other panel.
 12. Thepackaging kit of claim 2, wherein the pivotable side portions eachcomprise a first panel pivotably connected to the base of the articleportion, and wherein when the article portion is moved to the closedconfiguration, each of the first panels space the resilient member fromthe base of the article portion at least by a distance defined by awidth of each of the first panels.
 13. The packaging kit of claim 12,wherein the first panels each have a width, the width of each firstpanel being less than a height of each of the inner and outer panels ofthe opposing lateral wall portions.
 14. The packaging kit of claim 3,further comprising a removable retention member configured to fit withinthe container portion, the removable retention member comprising a frameand a second resilient member configured to couple with the frame.
 15. Apackaging kit for packaging an article, comprising: a substantiallyrigid member comprising: a container portion configured to form aportion of a container capable of containing an article, the containerportion comprising at least a base and a support panel pivotablerelative to the base and configured to resist a force applied by thearticle; and an article portion comprising at least a base and first andsecond pivotable side portions, the base being pivotable relative to thecontainer portion; the article portion further configured to be movablebetween an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein whenin the closed configuration at least a portion of each of the first andsecond pivotable side portions is pivoted towards an interior surface ofthe base of the article portion; and a resilient member configured tocouple with the first and second pivotable side portions, wherein whenthe resilient member is coupled with the first and second pivotable sideportions and the article portion is in the closed configuration, each ofthe first and second pivotable side portions space the resilient memberfrom the base of the article portion.
 16. The packaging kit of claim 15,wherein the support panel further comprises a pivotable flap.
 17. Thepackaging kit of claim 15, wherein: the container portion comprises thebase, opposing lateral wall portions, and opposing end wall portions,wherein at least one opposing lateral wall portion comprises an outerpanel, an inner panel, and the support panel; and the inner panel isconnected to the support panel at a first fold line and the outer panelis connected to the base at a second fold line, the first and secondfold lines when folded creating first and second creases; and the firstcrease is configured to nest in the second crease.
 18. The packaging kitof claim 15, wherein the substantially rigid member comprises a singlepiece of corrugated cardboard.
 19. The packaging kit of claim 17,wherein the first and second pivotable side portions each comprise anouter panel, the outer panels of the article portion having a width thatis less than a height of each of the opposing end wall portions of thecontainer portion.
 20. The packaging kit of claim 15, wherein theresilient member comprises a body portion and first and second pocketsdisposed at opposite ends of the body portion, and wherein each of thefirst and second pockets are configured to receive at least a portion ofeach of the first and second pivotable side portions.
 21. Thesubstantially rigid member of claim 15, wherein when the pivotable flapis pivoted towards the base, an edge of the pivotable flap is in aninterference fit with the second crease.
 22. The substantially rigidmember of claim 15, wherein the pivotable flap comprises a latchmechanism configured to retain the pivotable flap in a pivoted position.23. A substantially rigid member configured to form a container capableof containing an article, the substantially rigid member comprising acontainer portion, the container portion comprising at least a base anda support panel, the support panel pivotable relative to the base andconfigured to resist a force applied by the article.
 24. Thesubstantially rigid member of claim 23, wherein the support panelcomprises a pivotable flap.
 25. The substantially rigid member of claim24, wherein the container portion further comprises opposing lateralwall portions extending from a periphery of the base, and opposing endwall portions extending from the periphery of the base.
 26. Thesubstantially rigid member of claim 25, wherein each opposing lateralwall portion comprises an outer panel, an inner panel, and the supportpanel, the inner panel and the support panel connected at a first creasethat is configured to nest in a second crease dividing the base from thelateral wall portion.
 27. The substantially rigid member of claim 24,wherein the pivotable flap is located at an outer edge of the supportpanel.
 28. The substantially rigid member of claim 24, wherein thepivotable flap is located in a body portion of the support panel. 29.The substantially rigid member of claim 24, wherein when the pivotableflap is pivoted towards the base, an edge of the pivotable flap is in aninterference fit with the second crease.
 30. The substantially rigidmember of claim 24, wherein the pivotable flap comprises a latchmechanism configured to retain the pivotable flap in a pivoted position.31. The substantially rigid member of claim 30, wherein the latchmechanism comprises a tab and an aperture, the aperture configured toretain the tab in a friction fit.
 32. The substantially rigid member ofclaim 23, further comprising an article portion and a securing portion.